Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Logistic Growth Model
The function P(t) = 1600 / (1 + 7e^(-0.02t)) represents a logistic growth model, which describes how populations grow in a limited environment. Initially, the population grows exponentially, but as resources become limited, the growth rate slows and approaches a maximum carrying capacity, in this case, 1600 cells.
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Exponential Function
The term e^(-0.02t) in the population function indicates an exponential decay factor, which influences how quickly the population approaches its carrying capacity. Exponential functions are characterized by their rapid growth or decay, and in this context, they help model the initial growth phase of the cell population before it stabilizes.
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Graphing Functions
Graphing the population function involves plotting the values of P(t) against t to visualize how the cell population changes over time. Understanding how to graph functions is essential in calculus, as it allows for the analysis of behavior, trends, and key features such as intercepts, asymptotes, and limits.
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